A recent study by Peggy McDonough and colleagues found no difference in the effects of men's and women's socioeconomic status on mortality risk. However, they discovered a new wrinkle: increasing one spouse's income affects the other's mortality risk differently for men and women.
A recent study by Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center found that middle school-aged adolescents who begin smoking cigarettes at age 11 or younger engage in twice the number of risky behaviors that could end their life. These risk behaviors include substance abuse, violence, and suicidal thoughts.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute identify protein IL-18BP, which blocks production of interferon-gamma in T cells, a major substance released by immune cells under the influence of interleukin 18. This discovery may lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases and organ transplants.
ABX-EGF targets the receptor for human epidermal growth factor (EGFr), which is overexpressed on many major human tumor types. The antibody eradicates established tumors with low doses and has minimal immunogenicity.
A three-year study found that state and federal laws have helped older or sicker individuals obtain health coverage if they can afford it. However, the study revealed mixed results regarding the impact of these laws on health insurance affordability and enrollment in small employer and individual markets.
The international consortium has successfully completed the pilot phase and is now accelerating the large-scale effort to sequence the human genome. The goal is to produce a working draft covering at least 90 percent of human genome sequence within one year, with completion expected by 2003.
Researchers have developed virtual reality technology to evaluate mental health problems, including Alzheimer's disease and cognitive impairments. The study found that virtual reality tests showed no significant gender differences in performance.
AGU's Spring Meeting will address pressing issues such as climate change, nuclear waste management, and the impacts of global variability. The event will feature a diverse range of special sessions and press conferences.
Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University have identified a key brain peptide, orphanin, that regulates the body's inner clock and controls the circadian rhythm. The discovery opens new avenues for understanding sleep disorders and natural light cycles.
A new study published by Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers found that estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) does not significantly elevate the risk of breast cancer in women with histories of benign breast disease. Women already face a higher risk, but ERT does provide benefits for heart and bone health.
A large clinical trial of mechanical ventilator use for intensive care patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) has been stopped early due to the success of a smaller breath strategy. This approach was found to reduce deaths by approximately 25 percent, improving the care and saving thousands of lives each year.
Researchers suggest a digestive problem may lead to autism and schizophrenia symptoms, as undigested milk protein produces morphine-like compounds affecting brain function. Animal studies show 95% of autistic and schizophrenic children had high levels of the protein in their blood and urine.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers directly observed molecules of liquid forming three solid-like layers near a solid surface. The findings suggest that liquids do not behave like bulk liquids in confined geometries and have significant implications for the development of lubricants and thin film coatings.
Researchers found a direct dose-response relationship between alcohol consumption and gum disease severity. Low antioxidant vitamins like selenium increased the risk of gum disease by 13-fold.
Research from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine found a significant association between periodontal disease and insulin resistance in non-diabetics. The study also showed that individuals with severe gum detachment had a higher risk of developing chronic lung diseases.
The National Science Board will convene its next open session on March 25-26 at the National Science Foundation. During this meeting, agenda items include review of minutes from November 1998 and February 1999, as well as discussion of the Computer Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Scholarships (CSEMS) Program.
A new test using vinegar and visual inspection detected over 75% of potential cancers among African study participants, identifying almost twice as many cases as Pap smears. The inexpensive and easy test could provide a reliable screening option for women in developing countries where cervical cancer is prevalent.
Researchers have identified three types of oral bacteria most likely to increase the risk of heart disease: B. forsythus, P. gingivalis, and C. recta. These bacteria can contribute to plaque formation, narrow blood vessels, and induce platelet aggregation, increasing the risk of heart attack in persons with periodontal disease.
Researchers at UB School of Dental Medicine found that hydrogen peroxide, a common dental bleaching ingredient, may promote the growth of precancerous oral lesions. The study used photofluorescence to detect increased fluorescence in hamster cheek pouches exposed to hydrogen peroxide.
Ralph Nader will speak on mergers and acquisitions at the American Chemical Society's national meeting. The event is scheduled for March 22 at the Anaheim Convention Center.
Dr. Satcher addresses the American Chemical Society on building a better community health system, honoring black chemist Percy Julian's discovery of glaucoma treatment. He shares insights on opportunities and challenges for a balanced community health system.
Mike McCormack warns of impending energy crisis in the US, citing depleted conventional oil and natural gas reserves. He also addresses the limitations of implementing solar and wind energy resources to meet America's Kyoto Treaty obligations.
Wine flavor and aroma are influenced by grape composition and tannins, according to Dr. Ernie Simpson. The presentation will also explore the potential health benefits of moderate wine consumption.
Scientists have developed a technique to produce green fluorescent silk fibers by infecting silkworm larvae with a genetically engineered virus. This approach opens doors for genetic researchers to engineer silk proteins and produces potential economic applications.
A team of researchers will conduct an exhaustive analysis of rock samples, magnetic characteristics, and isotopic compositions from a depth of 15,000 feet in the Mauna Kea volcano. The project aims to learn more about mantle plumes and their role in producing volcanic eruptions.
The American Chemical Society is honoring black chemist Percy Julian's accomplishments in pharmaceuticals and chemical synthesis. Julian made significant contributions to the development of a low-cost synthetic method for cortisone, an antiarthritis drug, and synthesized the glaucoma medication physostigime.
Scientists have identified a gene called Pitx1 that can partially transform the upper limb of a vertebrate into a structure resembling its lower limb. The study found that Pitx1 is one of three genes thought to play a role in giving upper and lower extremities their identity.
Researchers found that intense stimulation is required to create lasting memory T cells, which are crucial for killing HIV-infected or cancerous cells. This discovery may provide a solution to vaccine challenges in treating AIDS and cancer.
An international team of experts in chemical education will discuss critical topics, including the effect of educational standards on chemist mobility and government support for chemistry education. The symposium will present the latest developments from various regions and showcase programs for students with varying backgrounds.
Dr. John Fortman will explore the chemistry connection in unexpected movies, such as 'The Graduate' and 'It's a Wonderful Life'. He will also showcase live chemical demonstrations in explosive films like Apollo 13 and Dante's Peak.
Scientists identified a new gene called derrière that controls the formation of the posterior regions of the embryo, including the neural tube and muscles. Derrière plays a key role in inducing precursor tissues that will eventually form muscle, making it a potential target for regenerating muscle in wasting diseases.
Researchers study hybrid species' genetic makeup and impact on ecosystems, challenging existing paradigms. Some studies find hybrids to be more fit than their parents in certain environments, while others reveal increased susceptibility to parasites.
A study published by UB oral biologists found a significant link between passive exposure to tobacco smoke and an increased risk of developing gum detachment and bleeding gums in adults. The research analyzed data from over 13,000 participants and showed that exposure to environmental smoke can lead to more severe periodontal disease.
The Whitehead Institute will build chip-based genome sequencing machines that can sequence 7 million DNA letters per day, reducing the cost of capital equipment by a factor of ten. The machines will be geared towards reading longer stretches of DNA, crucial for piece together overlapping fragments.
Researchers at Millennium Pharmaceuticals have cloned the mahogany gene, which produces a protein that can suppress diet-induced obesity in mice. The study found that mice with a mutated mg gene maintain a healthy weight on both high-fat and low-fat diets, suggesting a similar role in humans.
Physicists have successfully created an atom laser from a Bose-Einstein condensate using light manipulation, building on previous research funded by the Office of Naval Research. The NIST atom laser produces a highly directional beam with improved collimation compared to earlier experiments.
Researchers use explosive shock waves to break apart protein filaments in meat, reducing toughness and improving tenderness by 40-70%. This process also has the potential to kill harmful microorganisms, increasing food safety and shelf life.
Researchers found that verbal storage tasks activate left-hemisphere speech areas, while spatial storage tasks activate specific areas of the right cortex. The study provides strong evidence for a more precise understanding of how various regions of the frontal cortex are involved in specific mental activities.
The Isle Royale wolf population has rebounded dramatically after years of decline, with 25 wolves counted this winter. High reproductive success by two packs and the availability of easy prey due to poor moose conditions contributed to the increase.
A Mayo Clinic study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found that electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT) is an efficient and cost-effective screening tool for patients with chest pain. The test can detect coronary artery calcification, allowing doctors to safely send patients home without further observation.
Researchers discover a gene, mahogany, that regulates obesity in mice, linking it to the immune system. The protein, made inside cells, passes through membranes to detect hormones, potentially leading to new treatment options for obesity.
Researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and the University of Washington have mapped a gene associated with prostate cancer that runs in families, also linked to primary brain cancer. The study results appear in the American Journal of Human Genetics.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found an association between new hormone use and the occurrence of a second cardiac event in women with previous heart disease. The study suggests that hormone therapy may not be beneficial for women who already have heart disease, but may still be helpful for those without it.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have developed a new method to convert used french fry oil into biodiesel, producing a higher grade fuel with less waste and at a lower cost. The process eliminates the need for acid neutralization and wastewater, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly.
A new drug has been developed to target E.coli infections, reducing the risk of kidney damage by half in trials. The drug, developed by Synsorb Biotech, works by mimicking the receptors on gut cells to which the bacterium's deadly 'shiga' toxin binds, allowing it to mop up the toxin undigested.
A new study found that women under 65 with certain chronic medical conditions experience substantial morbidity and mortality from acute cardiopulmonary events during influenza season. The study suggests that stronger efforts to reach younger high-risk patients are needed to improve influenza vaccination levels.
Heavy metal contamination was found in northern Mexico's residential areas near smelters and refineries, exceeding maximum acceptable levels for cleanup. The contamination poses serious health risks to children and adults, including lead exposure, neurological damage, and increased cancer risk.
Researchers have discovered that screensaver keys can be vulnerable to hacking by scanning hard drives for random chunks of data. This could allow hackers to find and crack private signature keys, compromising encryption systems, particularly those on Web servers.
A new species of fossil animal has been discovered in South Africa, revealing the country as the birthplace of all mammals. The Anomocephalus africanus discovery reinforces the idea that distant ancestors of mammals originated from this region.
Researchers from Harvard & MIT found that adopting emerging dominant design and targeting new markets with architectural innovation are key to survival. The study draws on the volatile disk drive industry, where firms that incorporated dominant product design had a higher chance of survival than those that ignored its emergence.
Researchers analyzed over 5,000 angioplasty patients and found that 8-18% of stent implants were unnecessary, especially in men with shorter lesions. A simple angioplasty appears to work as well as implanting a stent, suggesting potential cost savings.
A study by Duke University researchers found that the longer a person used the popular diet drug combination fen/phen, the greater the likelihood they had a heart valve abnormality. Mild or greater aortic regurgitation was detected in 8.8% of patients who used the drug for three months or more, compared to 3.6% of a control group.
A national pilot study is testing whether soy supplementation can reduce prostate cancer risk in African-American men. The $494,588 study, led by Electra D. Paskett, Ph.D., will evaluate the effect of soy on markers for prostate cancer risk and assess its impact on cardiovascular health and quality of life.
Healthcare professionals who received the flu vaccine lost significantly fewer days of work due to illness compared to those who did not receive the vaccine. The vaccine also reduced the rate of influenza type A and B infections among vaccinated individuals.
Professor Robert Bower, a pioneer in semiconductor technology, has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering for his groundbreaking work on the self-aligned gate MOSFET and ion implantation. His invention revolutionized integrated circuit design, enabling faster and more efficient electronic devices.
A study involving 1,500 pairs of Swedish and British twins found that aggressive behavior can be inherited, while social environment plays a crucial role in non-aggressive antisocial behavior. The research revealed different etiologies for aggressive and non-aggressive behaviors in boys and girls.
A new study found that how children perceive their parents' divorce can significantly affect their mental health. Children who harbor negative biases about the divorce experience higher levels of depression and anxiety. Conversely, positive biases or illusions can buffer these effects, but excessive positivity may be detrimental.
A team of researchers led by Christine MacKenzie aims to create efficient intelligent tools for performing tasks in both virtual and real environments. The goal is to achieve direct vision and manipulation in a virtual hand lab, enabling humans to use their fingers as pointers.
Researchers found that dietary choline deficiency changes brain structure in developing rats, reducing cell division and increasing premature cell death. The study suggests a similar effect on human babies, highlighting the importance of prenatal nutrition for long-term cognitive health.
Researchers found that maternal soothing was not effective in reducing infants' cortisol response or behavioral reaction to stress, but may influence the child's developing model of the world. Maternal behavior in general is crucial in affecting cortisol and behavioral stress responses.